MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Functional genomic analysis of Bacillus cereus BC4 strain for chromium remediation in contaminated soil

Summary

Scientists discovered a bacterium called Bacillus cereus BC4 that can remove dangerous chromium from contaminated soil very effectively. By sequencing the bacteria’s genes, they found specific proteins that help it break down and transport chromium, converting the toxic form into a less harmful version. This research could help clean up polluted soils and restore damaged ecosystems, offering a natural and sustainable approach to environmental cleanup.

Background

Chromium contamination in soil poses significant environmental and health risks. Bacillus cereus BC4 is a bacterium isolated from contaminated rice paddy soil that shows potential for metal pollution remediation through chromium reduction mechanisms.

Objective

This study aimed to characterize the chromium remediation capabilities of Bacillus cereus BC4 and identify the genetic mechanisms underlying its Cr(VI) resistance and reduction through whole genome sequencing and functional genomic analysis.

Results

The strain achieved 98.6% reduction of Cr(VI) from 300 mg/L under optimal conditions (pH 8, 37°C, 120 rpm). Genome sequencing revealed 5,537,675 bp comprising a circular chromosome and plasmid, containing 14 chromium metabolism-related genes including ChrA and multiple nitroreductases. qRT-PCR showed chrA and nitR1 genes were upregulated under low Cr(VI) stress.

Conclusion

Bacillus cereus BC4 demonstrates remarkable chromium remediation potential with identified genetic mechanisms for Cr(VI) resistance and reduction. The strain also possesses genes for resistance to other heavy metals including arsenic, copper, cadmium, and manganese, making it valuable for bioremediation applications in contaminated environments.
  • Published in:Current Research in Microbial Science,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 40276017, DOI: 10.1016/j.crmicr.2025.100388
Scroll to Top